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Low-Noise Tools: A Quiet Generator, etc

Looking for a quiet generator or shop vacuum? Here are some quieter brands, models, and types of power tools for your workshop, garage, and yard.

When you're working in your garage or around the yard, many of the tools you use generate a lot of noise. Much of it is unavoidable — when you use a table saw, for instance, you'll want to wear hearing protection, if you value your hearing. But if you're concerned about noise, you also have the option of buying brands and models that generate less noise. This list is to help you identify those machines.

The products here have been included based on independent product reviews and test evaluations, spec sheets, and opinions of working professionals and hobbyists. Of course noise level is only one of the factors you'll be looking at when you buy, but this list can help steer your research and give you some benchmark products for comparison.

Quiet generators (portable power generators)

Quiet air compressors

This is a tough one! Air compressors are inherently noisy; a quiet air compressor seems a contradiction in terms. Rotary screw compressors are the quietest, with vane compressors a close second, but these are designed for industrial use and are more expensive. For home use, go for two-stage oil-filled compressors. In general, avoid piston compressors, especially the "oil-free" variety.

Rotary screw compressors

Vane compressors

GMC Syclone Ultra Quiet and Oil-Free Air Compressors

Senco PC1010 portable air compressor

Two-stage oil-filled compressors

If the compressor noise is unacceptable, position it as far as possible from your work area. You might also consider purchasing or building an enclosure for it, using
noise-reduction materials.

Quiet shop vacuums (wet/dry vacuums)

Quiet garage door openers

Chamberlain LiftMaster Whisper Drive WD822KD (belt-driven)

Any belt-driven model. (A screw-drive model will be the next most quiet garage door opener; chain drives are the noisiest.)

Quiet lawn mowers

As a general rule, reel lawn mowers are the quietest, then electric models, followed by gas-powered mowers, with riding lawn mowers being the loudest. A mulching or bagging style mower will be quieter than a side-discharging one.

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